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Portable Generator Backup Cost

What a safe portable setup really costs: interlock or inlet, cord, changeover hardware, fuel reserve, and an electrician.

Inputs

Inputs and assumptions

Listed interlock kit, or inlet box plus breaker for a manual or automatic inlet.

Result

Cost per kW of backup power
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Fuel kept on hand
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Generator, connection, and cords
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Cost of everything except the generator
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Electrician labor
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Total backup cost
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What to check

  • Panel brand and whether a listed interlock kit exists for it
  • Generator inlet rating and cord gauge matching the load

Related calculators

Budget-grade estimate built from your own unit prices. Local labor rates, permit fees, utility requirements, and site conditions move the total; three itemized quotes from licensed contractors replace this estimate.

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